Luka Jones earns PhD while advancing acting career

Luka Jones is a 49-year-old actor and comedian who recently earned a PhD in philosophy. He studied at USC Dornsife, where he appreciated the support from his professors, including his dissertation advisor, James Van Cleve. Jones was born in a Chicago suburb and moved to Los Angeles in 1997 to pursue acting. Like many hopefuls, he initially struggled to find success. Frustrated by the slow progress, he decided to focus on something else and enrolled in a philosophy master's program, which he enjoyed greatly. After earning his master's, Jones went on to USC for his PhD, where he focused on the topic of “merely verbal disputes in philosophy.” He found the experience rewarding, surrounded by smart peers and engaging discussions. As he neared graduation, Jones's acting career began to take off. He landed roles in TV shows like NBC's Best Friends Forever and Up All Night, as well as a part in the film Her. Although he doesn't attribute his acting directly to his philosophy training, Jones notes similarities between the two fields, such as the importance of clear communication and understanding meaning. Reflecting on his time at USC Dornsife, Jones encourages aspiring students to study philosophy if they truly love it and to pursue it passionately. He believes that dedication is key, regardless of the path chosen.